Sam Poh Tong Temple

Sam Poh Tong is a famous cave
temple located in Gunung
Rapat, about 5km south of
Ipoh. It is said to be the
biggest cave temple in the
country, and is an impressive
work of art with various
statues of Buddha
interspersed
among the stalactites and
stalagmites.

According to legend, the cave
was discovered in 1890 by a
monk from China who was
passing through Ipoh; he
decided to make it his home
and a place for meditation.
He
remained there for 20 years
until his death. Till today,
nuns and monks who dedicate
their lives to Buddha still
occupy the Sam Poh Tong.

The present temple facade
dates back to the 1950s and a
stiff climb of 246 steps will
lead you to an open cave with
an excellent view of Ipoh and
its surroundings. Other
attractions at the temple
include a beautiful Japanese
pond full of Japanese carps
and tortoises, which are a
symbols of longevity.

Within the temple, visitors
can discover the artistic
works of man and nature -
beautifully carved statues of
buddha in various forms sit
amidst amazing stalacties and
stalagmites.